Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) President Anbumani Ramadoss has called on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to take a strong stance against Karnataka’s proposed Mekedatu dam project. Anbumani emphasized the importance of preventing the dam’s construction to safeguard Tamil Nadu’s water security and avoid complicating the ongoing Cauvery river dispute.
Anbumani expressed worries about the current water situation in the state, highlighting concerns that the Mettur Dam may not be opened on time for Kuruvai cultivation in the Cauvery delta region. With only about 40 TMC of water available in the reservoir, significantly below the required level for irrigation, the situation is concerning.
The PMK leader noted that uncertainty looms over the customary opening of the dam for the first time in seven years. Anbumani stressed that any further reduction in Cauvery water inflows could be detrimental to Tamil Nadu, especially with Karnataka’s proposal for a new reservoir at Mekedatu across the river.
Referring to Karnataka’s plans, Anbumani criticized the state for not seeking Tamil Nadu’s approval before preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Mekedatu project. He warned that the construction of an additional dam in Karnataka could impact water availability in Tamil Nadu, potentially leading to shortages, including for drinking water needs.
